A tablet a day keeps the dentist away?
We all know that Calcium and Vitamin D forms strong teeth and healthy gums, and we can find them naturally occurring in food and beverages like:
- Milk.
- Cheese.
- Yogurt.
- Ice cream (but watch the sugar intake).
- Salmon (with bones).
- White beans.
- Kale.
- Black-eyed peas.
- Oranges.
- Almonds.
We can also find it as an additive in foods like orange juice, oatmeal, and boxed cereals.
But if you have a calcium deficiency, it can affect your teeth as well, so read further to find out about this condition and what you can do if your teeth have been damaged by it.
EFFECTS OF LOW CALCIUM IN THE BODY AND TEETH
Without Calcium and Vitamin D (which is necessary in our bodies to absorb calcium), numerous health problems can arise, from osteoporosis, to hypocalcemia (calcium deficiency), to seizures and irregular heartbeat.
Lack of calcium has a drastic effect on one’s teeth. Without enough calcium:
- Enamel can erode.
- More cavities can develop.
- Teeth can weaken and decay.
- Teeth can chip or break easily.
- Jaw bone can weaken due to osteoporosis.
- Raise the risk for periodontal (gum) disease
Simply put, if your body doesn’t get enough calcium from food, it will take it from your bones and teeth.
There are calcium tablets we can take if we feel we aren’t getting enough from the foods we eat, but do calcium supplements really help your teeth?
IF YOU SUFFER FROM CALCIUM DEFICIENCY
Calcium deficiency can occur at any age, but adults who are aging are particularly susceptible to this problem. A study conducted on 145 healthy participants found that taking Calcium and Vitamin D supplements prevented tooth loss in most of the cases.
Calcium supplements can be obtained over-the-counter or by prescription, and should be a part of your everyday health routine—usually one tablet will suffice.
Too much of calcium can result in kidney stones, weakening of bones, severe fatigue, depression, nausea and vomiting. It may also cause irregular heartbeat and dangerously low blood pressure
The ideal dosage need of calcium for a body depends on so many factors , like age, gender , climate, present health condition , medications currently on and the suggested intake form.
Always check with your nearby Dentist or doctor to see if the supplements or dosage are right for you and are compatible with other medications you may be taking.